What is a Swedish massage?

The term "Swedish Massage" refers to a variety of techniques specifically designed to relax muscles by applying pressure to them against deeper muscles and bones, and involves rubbing in the same direction as the flow of blood returning to the heart.

The main purpose of Swedish massage is to increase the oxygen flow in the blood and release toxins from the muscles.

Over time, the body builds up unhealthy amounts of stress hormones in response to work deadlines, traffic jams, relationship problems and more. These hormones can cause physical problems, like digestive issues, headaches and sleeplessness.

At our massage therapy practice, we offer Swedish massage therapy for relaxation and Stress relief.

Swedish massage shortens recovery time from muscular strain by flushing the tissues of lactic acid, uric acid, and other metabolic wastes. It increases circulation without increasing heart load. It stretches the ligaments and tendons, keeping them supple and pliable.

Swedish massage willstimulate the skin and nervous system while relaxing and soothing the nerves themselves. Emotional and physical stress and tension are reduced. Regularly scheduled massagesare a great way to keep stress under control. Swedish massagealso has many specific medical uses.

During Swedish massage, massage therapists use massage oils to facilitate smooth, gliding strokes called effleurage. Other classic Swedish massage moves include kneading, friction, stretching and (sometimes) tapping.

The usual sequences of techniques are:

1. Effleurage: Gliding strokes with the palms, thumbs and/or fingertips

2. Petrissage: Kneading movements with the hands, thumbs and/or fingers

3. Friction: Circular pressures with the palms of hands, thumbs and/or fingers

4. Vibration: Oscillatory movements that shake or vibrate the body

5. Percussion: Brisk hacking or tapping

6. Passive and active movements: Bending and stretching

Our Swedish massage can boost the immune system by reducing the amount of cortisol, also known as the stress hormone, that’s released in the body. Elevated levels of cortisol are a culprit in weight gain. The hormone also attacks the body's defensive cells that kill off bacteria and viruses. But a massage decreases the cortisol levels and therefore improves the functioning of the immune system.

Swedish massage is recognized as the first systematic method of modern massage in the Western world, and remains one of the most popular massages for clients who have never had a massage before.

Our massage therapist will show you to a warmed, darkened room where you will be asked to undress and lie down on your front with just a light sheet covering your body. The therapist will work on one body part at a time, and will leave the rest of your body covered by the sheet for your privacy and comfort.

Following your Swedish Massage session, you’ll leave feeling relaxed and regenerated. This can be attributed to the release of dopamine and serotonin during the massage. These hormones are responsible for feelings of happiness and overall well-being.

Studies show that during a massage, brain activity in the right lobe of the brain - which is more active when people are depressed - is decreased. Brain activity in the left lobe is increased, which indicates happiness.

Swedish massage feels good, and it’s relaxing and invigorating. It affects the nerves, muscles, glands, and circulation, while promoting health and general well-being.

Contact us for more information at (763) 336-4977.